Under The Radar 2027 Defenders Deserving More Looks

Get 30% off your first billing cycle with code: OscarGalindo30 in the coupon code area.   We released our long-overdue 2027 rankings update a few days ago, and now I'm here to tell you about all the shiny new names that were added. We introduced over 100 names across our rankings and watchlist, including new out-of-state players, spring risers, camp standouts, and prospects who slipped under our radar during the winter update.     <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />    <a href="https://x.com/BarrettHeg54101" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@BarrettHeg54101)</a>   Mount Michael had a breakout campaign in 2025 as they returned to the playoffs, and will look to repeat with key players like senior [player_tooltip player_id='2230735' first='Barrett' last='Hegemann'] in the fold. As a junior, Barrett racked up 33 tackles, seven TFLs, 3.5 sacks, and a fumble recovery. Hegemann is a very interesting player because I can see him playing either defensive end or an EDGE/OLB hybrid depending on how he continues to develop physically. He has a very lengthy frame at 6'4" and 215 pounds, which helps him extend and make initial contact before using his hands to effectively swipe away at opponents. Hegemann shows good bend when rounding the corner while maintaining proper pad level throughout the rep. Strong, sturdy base that helps him anchor down to keep from losing ground when engaged with blockers— and the awareness to keep his eyes looking for the ball. Good lateral quickness with the speed to sharply close on the ball. He uses good wrap-up technique when going for a tackle and can also deliver a big hit when given the chance. Definitely looking forward to seeing more of Barrett this fall!      <a href="https://x.com/BaylorUhing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@BaylorUhing)</a>   Offers: Peru State, Morningside, and Midland.   We looked at a versatile defender in the front seven, now lets look at Bennington's [player_tooltip player_id='1700292' first='Baylor' last='Uhing'] who can play the LB/S hybrid role. Uhing had a strong junior season, tallying 61 tackles, 4.5 TFLs, and an interception. Baylor is an athletic defender with a well-rounded skill set and the frame (6'3", 190 lbs) to fit several roles at the next level. In coverage, Uhing shows good instincts, as he can quickly pick up route concepts and get to a spot to make a play on the ball. Even when playing as one of the deep safeties, Baylor does an excellent job fitting the run, displaying an explosive break on the ball and great closing speed when attacking the ball carrier. Uhing takes smart angles to the ball carrier and showed that he can effectively disengage from blockers when needed. He uses solid technique when tackling his opponent and is a sure tackler in the open field. It's hard to pinpoint what position Baylor will fill exactly, but I do know that he falls into the "get this guy on the field" category!      <a href="https://x.com/BriggsErnst99" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@BriggsErnst99)</a>   Offers: Mount Marty, Morningside, Dakota Wesleyan, Dordt, and McPherson College.   The 8-man classes are always a great place to go looking for tough, physical trench warriors, and senior [player_tooltip player_id='2064001' first='Briggs' last='Ernst'] fits the bill. Briggs started on both sides of the ball for the Jaguars, ending the year with 39 tackles, six TFLs, and three sacks. Although I can see Briggs playing either offense or defense at the next level, I was very impressed with his defensive tape. Ernst uses a powerful leg drive and a quick get-off to overwhelm blockers at the point of contact, allowing him to spill into the backfield and create pressure. He is accurate and strong when shooting his hands, making sure to get the right placement to win the inside-leverage battle. Good bend and pad level also help him maintain proper leverage over his opponent when engaged. Briggs had a versatile role on the Jags' DL, showing he can play the edge and is stout enough to jump into the interior. He brings a non-stop motor and is always working his way towards the ball. Solid size at 6'2" and 245 lbs with room to grow. Make sure to add this guy to your radar ASAP!      <a href="https://x.com/rylanschoenbeck">(@rylanschoenbeck)</a>   Norris' leading tackler from last season, [player_tooltip player_id='2231083' first='Rylan' last='Schoenbeck'], returns to spearhead the defense once again. Rylan is a thumper at linebacker who ended the year with 61 tackles, three TFLs, a sack, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles. Schoenbeck is a player who stands out just from the roster sheet with next-level size at 6'2" and 215 pounds and room to continue maxing out his frame. Rocking the classic 'backer neck roll, Rylan fits the bill of a throwback inside linebacker who is relentless going downhill with a tireless pursuit. He does an excellent job filling his gaps and has the strength to fight off blockers at the line of scrimmage. Rylan can also quickly flip his hips and get to his coverage assignments, displaying solid lateral quickness. Hard hitter who can stonewall ball carriers at the point of contact. Rylan is still holding out for his first offer, but with his level of experience and skill set, that shouldn't last much longer.      <a href="https://x.com/ZekeJasa6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@ZekeJas</a><a href="https://x.com/ZekeJasa6">a6)</a>   Offers: Bemidji State and Doane.   The Gretna Dragons return an experienced group to their secondary, including hidden gem CB [player_tooltip player_id='1271363' first='Zeke' last='Jasa']. Zeke was highly productive as a junior, recording 51 tackles, three TFLs, and two forced fumbles. My biggest takeaway from watching Zeke's junior tape is that he brings a level of tenacity to the field that is sure to fire up a secondary. He is very aggressive in coverage, able to press receivers at the line while remaining in their hip pocket. Jasa's willingness to be physical at the catch point resulted in an impressive 10 PBUs, as he instinctively got his hands up to defend passes or jar the ball loose from the receiver's hands. Zeke also brings that same motor when defending the run, showing he can disengage from perimeter blocks to step up and make a stop. A great change of direction, a sharp break on the ball, and clean footwork allow him to move smoothly in coverage. Zeke holds a pair of offers, with several other schools keeping close tabs on the Dragon's CB.     <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   Make sure to follow @PRZ_OscarG for more news on Nebraska and Iowa HS recruiting.

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